Response of the Ventilatory Indices and Length of Hospital Stay to Inspiratory Muscle Training Following Thoracic Surgery

Background: Impairment of the function of the respiratory muscles is the leading cause of respiratory complications after thoracic surgeries. Study Aim: To evaluate the effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) using threshold IMT device on the ventilatory function and duration of postoperative hospitalization after thoracic surgeries. Subjects and Methods: Fifty male patients post thoracotomy with age range of 40-60 years were recruited into the study. They were divided into two groups of equal number, both received the traditional physical therapy program while those only in the study group received IMT using threshold IMT. The program was 3 times/week for 6 weeks. FEV1 and FVC were measured by spirometry before beginning and after finishing the program and the length of postoperative hospi-talization were calculated. Results: The study group showed significant increase in FEV1 (p 0.001), FVC (p 0.05) and their percentage of improvement at the end of the study as compared to the control group. However, within each group significant improvement in the ventilatory function measured was demonstrated from pre to post program measurements (p 0.001 in the study group and p 0.05 in the control group). The length of post-operative hospitalization was significantly shorter in the study group (p 0.05). Conclusion: IMT significantly improves the strength of the diaphragm and shortened the duration of postoperative hospitalization in post thoracotomy patients.